The movie screen is not the page of a book, but it comes pretty close in comparison with adaptations of popular stories. Movie versions of books seem to be taking over the theater box office, and they are some of the most sought after movies.

This summer it was typical for virtually every girl of the age of 13 up to see John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars,” which locally premiered on June 3rd. Because the bittersweet love story was such a success, book fanatics wouldn’t dare to miss the film adaption. The New York Time’s bestseller had as much success on the screen as it did on the shelves. Several of the actors have already received rewards, and an Oscar may be no surprise, although contradicting to some. It stays true to the book, resulting in a tear jerking movie that appealed to everyone on some level, while thoroughly pleasing the original fans.

“The Giver,” released into theaters on August the 15th, is a movie of many great qualities- love, courage, truth, sacrifice and determination. Although it is set in a futuristic dystopian world, the common cores are relatable to the modern world, reflecting onto the audience. If the success of the movie is anything like the award-winning book, it will continue to appeal to audiences of all ages for years to come.

“If I Stay” is a young adult novel written by Gayle Forman 2009. The release date for the movie is August 22nd. Both the book and the movie follow Mia, a 17 year old girl, as she deals with the aftermath of a fatal car accident involving her family. In a coma, Mia has an out-of-body experience, and watches as friends and family come together at the hospital where she is being treated. Mia watches as memories of her childhood and current love life flash before her eyes. She comes to realize that she must decide if she is to wake up and lead a life more difficult than she ever imagined, or to slip away and die.

“The Maze Runner” is the first book in a young-adult science fiction trilogy by James Dashner. The novel was published in 2009 and will be released as a major motion picture on September 19th of this fall. It follows Thomas, a young boy who is placed into a mysterious place known as the Glade with no background information. The reader discovers Thomas’s story through suspenseful action, revealing his mysterious background and leading the Glade into a transition of change.

The stories behind these movies proved successful in paperback, which is why they continue to be just as successful on the movie screen.

(Images provided by http://www.moviepostershop.com)